Dr. Will W. K. Ma received his PhD at the University of Hong Kong. He is at present the Head of Learning Commons, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi). Dr. Ma's research focuses on the use of information systems for communication, knowledge sharing and knowledge creation. He has papers in Computers & Education, Computers in Human Behavior, Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, International Journal of Communications, Law, and Policy, and Information & Management. He served as Co-editor of the Journal of Communication and Education; and Cogent Social Sciences. He is the President of the Hong Kong Association for Educational Communications and Technology (HKAECT) since 2016. Dr. Ma has delivered talks at a number of occasions and organizations, such as Hong Kong Public Relations Professionals’ Association; Hong Kong Police College; iCable TV; Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (HKSAR), etc.

Topic:

Curriculum, Learning Resources, and Society: A Learner’s Perspective

Abstract

Advances in technology reshape the role of academic libraries in content creation and in digital dissemination. Libraries no longer confine to a collection of printed books in a physical space. Libraries do not work and purchase only from prominent publishers. Libraries working independently of its own platform with sophisticated searching functions over the millions of learning resources, is just, not enough. It is high time called for an integrated framework for the curriculum, the learning resources, and the learner. This study discusses an integrated framework focusing on the learner’s perspective, how the learning resources should embed into the curriculum, to enhance learning and teaching of the curriculum.

Linda Oshita, Ph.D.University of Hawaii at Manoa, Department of Special Education

Biography:

Dr. Linda Oshita is an Associate Specialist at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She is currently serving as Chair and Faculty Advisor of the Post-Baccalaureate in Special Education Program, a teacher preparation program in the Department of Special Education. Dr. Oshita has written papers on the topic of advising students in higher education. She has also presented at professional conferences in Australia, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, and the United States.

Her research interests include: Advising issues in higher education and special education teacher preparation.

Title of Keynote Speech: Stories of Chuuk: A Multi-Generational English Literacy Skills Program

The Stories of Chuuk Project is a pilot program designed to promote English language literacy skills and family involvement in literacy activities among Chuukese families new to Hawaii. This multi-generational family literacy program aimed to improve English literacy skills achievement through a research-based literacy program model. Research suggests program elements that are particularly effective in promoting literacy development in culturally diverse communities include: (1) parental involvement in school/home-based learning activities (Cole, 2011; Harris & Goodall, 2008) and (2) incorporating culturally acceptable activities in family literacy programs (Auerbach, (1995). Expected outcomes of the program included: (1) increased time spent in literacy activities among children and their family members; (2) increased opportunities for family members to engage in their child’s literacy activities; and (3) more positive attitudes toward literacy activities. In this presentation, the speaker will describe challenges newly emigrated Chuukese in Hawaii face with regards to English language literacy and how programs like Stories of Chuuk promote English literacy skills. Additionally, the speaker will share program elements that may be applicable to similar programs that help promote English language literacy.